Bhubaneswar, 15 July (H.S.) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj have expressed profound grief over the death of a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, who succumbed to severe burn injuries late Monday night following a self-immolation attempt on July 12.
The student had reportedly taken the extreme step in protest against alleged sexual harassment on campus. Despite intensive medical care at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, she could not be saved.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Chief Minister Majhi said he was deeply saddened by the tragic loss. Despite all efforts by the government and a team of expert doctors, the student could not be saved. I pray to Lord Jagannath to give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss, he said.
He assured the family of strict action against those found guilty. I have personally directed officials to ensure that the culprits face the full force of the law. The state government stands firmly with the family in this time of immense grief.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also expressed condolences, stating, “Despite all efforts, her life could not be saved. I pray for her soul’s eternal peace and extend heartfelt sympathy to her family.”
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj termed the incident “heartbreaking” and reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on such issues. “What happened should never have occurred. We have already initiated proceedings to ensure the strictest punishment. This tragedy must serve as a wake-up call for institutions to act swiftly and sensitively in such cases.”
He further added, “I am at a loss for words to condemn the incident. May the Lord give her family the strength to endure this difficult time.”
The case has triggered widespread public outrage and raised urgent questions about campus safety and the mechanisms in place to address harassment complaints in educational institutions across the state.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
